Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up your kitchen with this comforting Chicken Pot Pie recipe, a classic favorite perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings at home. Featuring tender chunks of chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky, golden crust, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. It's an easy-to-follow recipe that combines simplicity and heartiness, making it a go-to for any occasion.
This Chicken Pot Pie is a heartwarming dish that reminds us of home. It's perfect for sharing with loved ones and makes for delightful leftovers!
The Perfect Comfort Food
Chicken Pot Pie is the epitome of comfort food, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every bite. This dish combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all enveloped in a flaky crust. The blend of flavors creates a harmonious experience that's perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. It’s not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings everyone together.
The versatility of Chicken Pot Pie also makes it a beloved dish in many households. You can easily customize the filling with seasonal vegetables or leftover chicken, reducing food waste while ensuring a fresh meal. This adaptability means you can enjoy this comforting classic any time of the year.
Health and Nutrition
While Chicken Pot Pie is indulgent, it can also be made healthier with a few simple swaps. Opting for whole wheat pie crusts and adding more vegetables can enhance the nutritional profile while maintaining that comforting feel. Incorporating peppers, green beans, or even sweet potatoes can add vitamins and minerals while keeping the pie hearty and filling.
Moreover, using a rotisserie chicken or preparing chicken in advance can significantly reduce prep time, making it easier to enjoy a homemade meal on busy weeknights. This dish is not just a treat; it can balance both a satisfying meal and essential nutrients for the family.
Tips for the Best Pie
To achieve a perfectly flaky crust, be sure to handle the dough as little as possible. Avoid overworking it, as this can lead to a tough texture. If you have time, chilling the crust before baking can help in maintaining its shape and ensuring a light, airy bite.
Don’t forget to let your Chicken Pot Pie cool for a few minutes after baking. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. Additionally, feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your family's preferences—whether that's upping the herbs or adding a hint of garlic for an extra flavor kick.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup corn
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Crust
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts
Mix all filling ingredients well.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, stirring until thickened. Add the chicken, carrots, peas, corn, salt, and pepper, and cook for another five minutes.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan. Pour the filling into the crust and cover with the second pie crust. Seal and cut slits for steam to escape.
Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Let it cool slightly before serving to enjoy the perfect slice!
Serving Suggestions
For a well-rounded meal, consider pairing your Chicken Pot Pie with a light salad or sautéed greens. A simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pie. You can also serve it with homemade biscuits for a true comfort food feast.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try creating individual pot pies using ramekins. This adds a personal touch and allows guests to have their own serving, making them perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.
Storing and Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the pie and keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can last for about two months in the freezer. When ready to serve, bake it straight from frozen, adding extra time for cooking.
Reheating is easy: simply slice the desired serving and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, usually about 20-25 minutes. This method helps retain the crispy crust, ensuring your Chicken Pot Pie remains as delicious as when it was first baked.
Frequently Asked Questions
One common question about Chicken Pot Pie is whether it can be made ahead of time. Absolutely! It’s a great dish to prepare in advance, as the flavors meld beautifully after sitting for a while. Just make sure to bake it before serving, ensuring it is heated thoroughly and ready to enjoy.
Another frequently asked question is about dietary modifications. You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the chicken with hearty vegetables and using vegetable broth. Vegan options are also available by substituting dairy milk with almond or soy milk and using plant-based butter.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and keep it in the refrigerator for up to a day before assembling and baking.
→ Can I freeze Chicken Pot Pie?
Yes, it freezes well before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Chicken Pot Pie
Warm up your kitchen with this comforting Chicken Pot Pie recipe, a classic favorite perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings at home. Featuring tender chunks of chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky, golden crust, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. It's an easy-to-follow recipe that combines simplicity and heartiness, making it a go-to for any occasion.
Created by: Amelia Grant
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup corn
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Crust
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts
How-To Steps
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, stirring until thickened. Add the chicken, carrots, peas, corn, salt, and pepper, and cook for another five minutes.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan. Pour the filling into the crust and cover with the second pie crust. Seal and cut slits for steam to escape.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 15g